What tests need to be done to check the heart. Heart examination

Ignoring the signs of heart dysfunction leads to exacerbation of chronic diseases, heart attack or stroke.

But along with this, modern cardiology offers a variety of methods for studying the heart and blood vessels. Diagnostics are very diverse, which allows you to conduct an examination for any course of diseases and individual nuances of a person.

This article presents the most popular methods for studying the cardiovascular system, their features, to whom and when they are prescribed, and also how they are carried out. Additionally, the issue of examining the organ through the esophagus will be highlighted. As you read, the reader may have additional questions.

Competent specialists of the portal free of charge online are ready to give a detailed answer to the topic of interest to you.

With us you will not find complex terminology - we speak in an accessible way about the complex!

Examination of the heart and blood vessels

Disorders in the cardiovascular system rank first in terms of incidence. This is due to the fact that the treatment is slow and sometimes can last throughout life. That is why experts in the field of cardiology strongly recommend undergoing heart examinations for a healthy person at least once a year. Those patients who are diagnosed with the disease should be examined according to the plan drawn up by the attending physician.

An illness detected early means a high probability of a quick cure. Timely diagnosis has already saved many lives.

Many of our readers actively use the well-known method based on natural ingredients, discovered by Elena Malysheva, for the treatment of HEART DISEASES. We definitely recommend checking it out.

The table below shows the groups of people who are most often ordered to have a heart examination.

The study of the cardiovascular system is divided into two categories - objective and instrumental. Let's take a closer look at both categories.

Objective diagnostic methods are used during the initial examination of the patient. The history provided by the person allows the doctor to make a preliminary diagnosis and identify the problem. These methods include:

1. Palpation. It happens as follows - the doctor puts his hand on the patient's chest so that the brush touches the ribs, and the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe heart is felt with his fingers. This approach allows you to listen to the strength, height and localization of shocks in the heart. Thus, a number of diseases are defined. For example, valvular and aortic stenosis, tachycardia, dysfunction of the heart and others.
2. Percussion. Determines the approximate size and position of the organ, as well as the vascular "bush".
3. Auscultation of the organ. It is done with a stethoscope. Allows you to determine the properties of the heart tone, noise and possible violations. The examination of the heart is carried out in absolute silence.
4. Measurement of pressure in the arteries. Use tonometers of any kind. In this way, you can find out the development of hypertension and hypotension.

These methods are used by the doctor during the full-time examination of the patient. In the presence of deviations, it is necessary to undergo further examination of the cardiovascular system.

Instrumental diagnostics of the study of the work of the heart

The table below provides information about the normal parameters of the heart and blood vessels.

In addition to objective methods, there are also instrumental diagnostics that establish the disease with high accuracy. Of course, the most common is the electrophysiological study of the heart (ECG), but there are other ways to examine the organ and the vascular system:

1. ECG is a method of recording electrical impulses that radiate the surface of the body. These impulses are identical to the cyclic activity of the organ. Examination reveals myocardial infarction, ischemia, arrhythmia, conduction dysfunction. To date, there is an innovative approach to this method - the examination is carried out remotely using a PC or a mobile device, information is collected during the patient's daily activities.

The figure below shows how the procedure is carried out.

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1. Ultrasound diagnostics. Reveals pathological processes of the departments of the body. The task of ultrasound is to study the system. The latest update of the equipment allows you to monitor the activity of blood vessels, blood clots, and detect the presence of plaques.
2. EchoCG. Monitors the activity of the valvular apparatus, the size of the walls of the heart, as well as assess the blood flow. Echocardiography is an advanced method in the diagnosis of thrombi, malformations, oncology, ventricular and aortic aneurysms. It is this examination that is recommended for patients who have had a heart attack.
3. Myocardial scintigraphy. It is carried out using a special pharmaceutical preparation. Getting into the blood, it fixes the blood flow, thereby it is possible to assess the state of the vascular system.
4. MRI. Imaging reveals murmurs, localization of ischemia, and vascular dysfunction.

Methods for studying the work of the heart can be carried out both as independent procedures and in combination. Research-based preventive methods are the guarantor of high results. Of course, this is not the whole range of instrumental methods. There are also diagnostics by Holter and through the esophagus, they will be discussed in the following sections.

It should also be noted such diagnostics as functional tests of the cardiovascular system. These samples are used for physical culture research. The result of the obtained indicators are an addition to the physical fitness of the subjects.

How the diagnosis is carried out, you can find out by downloading the file "Functional tests of the CCC" for free, which presents the examination technique and norms.

Holter study

The Holter technique is named after the American scientist Norman Holter. Diagnosis consists in the fact that for 24 hours the work of the heart is monitored. The survey is indispensable in the analysis of data on the work of the heart and blood vessels.

Holter cardiac monitoring is carried out using a mobile device that the patient wears during the day on the belt or worn over the shoulder.

The weight of the device is 0.45 kg, so the person does not feel any discomfort caused by wearing it. From this device there are wires that end with electrodes. The latter are attached to the body and transfer information to a disk in the device.

There are two Holter diagnostics - fragmentary and full-scale.

• A full-scale examination can take up to three days and is used very often today. Due to the fact that data registration occurs throughout the day, the result of the survey is highly informative. Thus, the doctor can analyze the activity of the body and identify the cause of failures. The classical ECG is able to record no more than 50 heart beats, and the Holter method is able to register beats.
• A fragmentary Holter examination is used if the patient has a rare heart failure. The time range of monitoring may be longer, because it is necessary to understand the cause of intermittent failures. Data can be recorded continuously or only at the moment of discomfort and pain.

Holter diagnostics is of particular value in violation of the rhythm of the contraction of the heart. Indeed, with the help of a traditional ECG, it is quite difficult to identify symptoms. And the Holter method allows you to track the onset of arrhythmia and, accordingly, understand the cause. This monitoring is useful for sudden loss of consciousness, frequent dizziness and unexplained chest pain. These signs indicate diseases of the organ, and such a diagnosis can confirm or refute suspicions.

Holter monitoring is most often prescribed to the following categories of people:

• who have had a heart attack;
• with a diagnosis of angina pectoris or if it is suspected;
• if the myocardium is enlarged;
• with an extended QT (author's note - a violation of the ventricles with a high probability of death).

Thanks to the developments of the scientist, diagnosing a disease such as ischemia at an early stage has become available to any patient. In the event that a person feels discomfort, you should contact a medical institution. And then there is a high probability of being healed of the disease and continuing to enjoy life for many more years.

Transesophageal diagnosis of the heart

The transesophageal examination is mainly used when examining patients for ischemia. The main aspect is the assessment of the state of the coranary reserve. A distinctive advantage of diagnostics is non-invasiveness. For example, an electrophysiological study of the heart of the activity of the sinus node is carried out using tactile contact with the surface of the body.

To a certain extent, transesophageal examination is the safest. physical activity is not required, which cannot be said during tests with physical activity.

Most often, monitoring through the esophagus is prescribed for those people who cannot be physically overloaded. These patients include:

• violation of the musculoskeletal system;
• with diseases of the respiratory system;
• with affected veins and arteries;
• high AG;
• lack of physical preparation.

This method is strictly contraindicated in diseases of the esophagus.

For diagnostics through the esophagus, each treatment center has a separate room, which contains cardio equipment, resuscitation and registration equipment. The patient takes a horizontal position, and without the use of anesthetics, a wire from 25 cm to 45 cm is inserted into the esophagus through the nasopharynx, at the end of which there is an electrode. Movement is controlled by an electrogram coming from the esophagus.

To assess arrhythmia, a multi-pole electrode is mainly used, which allows stimulation and data recording. Thanks to the use of innovative equipment, in some cases, bundles of His are examined by this method. For diagnostics through the esophagus, pacemakers are used that create impulses up to 20 mm with the ability to adjust up to 50 V.

The figure below shows a diagram of the diagnosis of the heart through the esophagus.

Summing up the article, it should be noted a wide range of diagnostic methods for the heart and vascular system. Thus, medicine makes it possible for every person to observe the state of the main organ of the human body, respond in time to changes in its work and, accordingly, maintain health. Do not ignore the signs of ailments, sign up for a consultation with a cardiologist and your heart will give long healthy years of life in gratitude!

• Do you often experience discomfort in the region of the heart (stabbing or squeezing pain, burning sensation)?
• You may suddenly feel weak and tired.
• The pressure keeps dropping.
• There is nothing to say about shortness of breath after the slightest physical exertion ...
• And you have been taking a bunch of medications for a long time, dieting and watching your weight.

Read better what Elena Malysheva says about this. For several years she suffered from arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, angina pectoris - constricting, stabbing pains in the heart, heart rhythm failures, pressure surges, swelling, shortness of breath even with the slightest physical exertion. Endless tests, trips to doctors, pills did not solve my problems. BUT thanks to a simple prescription, heart pain, pressure problems, shortness of breath are all in the past. I feel great. Now my doctor is wondering how it is. Here is a link to the article.

What tests should be done for cardiovascular diseases?

Diseases of the cardiovascular system are by far the most global problem in medicine, because they are the reason why the largest number of people die every year. Heart attack, heart failure, hypertension and stroke affect people of all ages. Even children in our time suffer from such ailments from an early age and learn what shortness of breath or pain in the heart area is. The reasons can be hereditary predisposition, and the wrong way of life, and even bad ecology. The most important point in the treatment, on which the further prognosis of the outcome of the disease and the possibility of recovery depends, is timely tests.

What tests can reveal problems with the heart and blood vessels?

It is worth noting that some stages of various diseases of the cardiovascular system can be completely asymptomatic. And only preventive visits to the doctor and his appointment for testing can identify the problem in time and take measures to eliminate it. Consider what tests need to be done first.

1. Lipidogram. This is a blood test taken from a vein in the morning on an empty stomach to check for high cholesterol.
2. Coagulogram. Needed to determine the time of blood clotting and identify problems such as the formation of blood clots.
3. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Such an analysis is required to detect changes in the activity of the AST enzyme involved in amino acid metabolism. An increase in activity several times is a sign of a pre-infarction state.
4. Creatine kinase. This is the establishment in the blood of indicators of the intracellular enzyme crestine kinase, which acts as an indicator of myocardial damage.
5. Lactate dehydrogenase. This is also an enzyme that is present in the muscles of the heart, and enters the bloodstream only when they are destroyed.

Thus, the identification and definition of some catalysts and anomalies in the processes of hematopoiesis is very important and can save a person's life.

How is the heart checked and examined if pathology is suspected?

Modern people often develop diseases of the heart and blood vessels due to stress, fast pace of life, ecology and other factors. They may not be aware of the pathology until a critical situation arises. In this case, it will be difficult for doctors to help and cure the patient, therefore, in order to preserve the health of the heart, it is important to carry out preventive diagnostics, and we will tell you how to check the heart in this article.

Heart failure symptoms

Many people do not see a doctor when heart problems appear because the symptoms are often vague and can be confused with other diseases, such as those of the lungs or stomach. Even if the problem is obvious, and the patient understands that something is wrong with the heart, he often goes to the pharmacy to buy drugs that can relieve symptoms, but the disease itself is not treated and progresses.

The main symptoms of heart disease, which require the help of doctors and a thorough examination, are as follows:

• Shortness of breath and shortness of breath. It is about shortness of breath without physical exertion.
• Lack of air at night. In the supine position, the symptom intensifies, and when the body is upright, it disappears, which indicates heart failure.
• Edema. Such a symptom occurs for various reasons, but if there is a pathology of the heart, then initially the legs swell in the evening, gradually the swelling spreads higher, up to the abdomen.

• Pain and pressure in the chest. The symptom appears after and during exercise, but after 5-10 minutes the pain disappears. Disappears when put under the tongue nitroglycerin. A symptom appears when the patency of the vessels is impaired, and they cannot normally cope with the blood supply to the myocardium.
• Heartache. If the heart hurts, there is a stabbing, piercing sensation. When turning or tilting, true pains in the heart do not increase.
• Headache, nausea, tinnitus. Symptoms appear with arterial hypertension. The problem occurs in people over 50 years of age.
• Failure of the heart rhythm. If the heart begins to beat irregularly and unevenly, then it is better to consult a doctor for diagnosis and proper treatment.

Important! In addition to a heart rhythm failure, you should see a doctor if your resting heart rate is more than 90 or less than 60 beats per minute.

Primary diagnosis

The cardiovascular system leads in the number of diseases. A common problem is arteriosclerosis. It develops slowly. throughout life. Therefore, doctors advise to undergo an examination once a year. If the disease is detected early, treatment will be quick and effective.

Methods for examining the heart in medical practice are divided into two types:

During the initial examination in the hospital, doctors use an objective study of the cardiovascular system. After the examination, the doctor makes a presumptive diagnosis, then connects instrumental diagnostics.

Objective methods for examining the heart include:

• Palpation. The test is carried out by placing a hand on the patient's chest, so that the brush is in contact with the ribs, after which the heart area is felt with the fingers. This method helps to hear the rhythm of the heart, the strength of the beats, the height and their place. Due to this, it is possible to determine some pathologies, for example, stenosis, aorta, tachycardia.

• Percussion of the heart. This method of studying the cardiovascular system allows you to roughly identify the size of the organ and position in the chest by tapping. Due to this, a preliminary diagnosis can be made.

• Auscultation of the heart. It is done with a stethoscope. This method consists in listening and allows you to assess the nature of heart murmurs, the deviation of the sound picture from the norm. The procedure must be carried out in complete silence.

• Measurement of blood pressure. In this case, any type of tonometer is used, which measures pressure to determine hypertension or hypotension.

The described methods of studying the cardiovascular system are carried out only during the initial examination, if the doctor finds certain deviations from the norm, he prescribes additional methods to check the activity of the heart, in this case a complete examination with special equipment is used.

Electrocardiography

This diagnostic method allows you to register and then investigate the electrical impulses that the heart muscle produces during operation. If the heart is without pathologies, then electrical excitation passes through different cardiac sections with a certain sequence. If the excitability of the heart muscle fails, this indicates pathologies and possible diseases.

When the myocardium contracts and relaxes, all data is recorded and written in the form of teeth, after which the doctor receives a curve, a graph.

Data is recorded by a special device called an electrocardiograph. This diagnostic method allows you to evaluate the frequency and uniformity of the heart rhythm, various electrical processes occurring in the organ. An ECG is performed to detect arrhythmia, ischemia, infarction.

Important! Shifts in the ECG curve are not only due to improper heart function. The reason may be in diseases not related to this organ: pneumonia, pleurisy, obesity, etc.

Electrocardiography may be included in a comprehensive examination of the heart along with other methods.

In addition to taking a cardiogram at rest, other ECG methods are also used:

In the first case, the study continues for a day. Equipment and sensors are connected to the patient, after which a round-the-clock recording of indicators of changes in excitability begins. Often a similar method is used for severe patients, or if the problem appears periodically, for example, with a short-term arrhythmia.

In the second case, the ECG is taken before and after the loads on the body. This method allows you to identify the patient's susceptibility to physical activity. Bicycle ergometry is often used for ischemia, namely angina pectoris.

Phonocardiography and echocardiography

Phonocardiography allows you to record all the sounds and murmurs of the heart. Recording is performed through a phonocardiograph, which is usually an additional device to an electrocardiograph. This method of instrumental diagnosis allows you to assess the symptoms of diseases by sound.

Echocardiography is performed using ultrasound. To date, there are several methods for conducting echocardiography:

1. One-dimensional EchoCG allows you to get a projection of the organ in the plane. The heart is examined in this way to determine the wall thickness and the size of the cavities. Additionally, the operation of the valves and the state of the organ during the contraction period and after it are evaluated.
2. Two-dimensional EchoCG gives a three-dimensional picture of the examined organ, so the method is considered more informative.
3. Doppler echocardiography - diagnostics of blood flow inside the heart, is used to assess hemodynamics, identify valve and septal defects, and the presence of shunts.

Radiography

Methods for studying the heart and blood vessels using X-rays allow us to assess the size and shape of the heart, large vessels, and the volume of fluid in the pericardial part. When using this method, a person receives a dose of radiation, so it makes no sense to use it unnecessarily. It is used when other methods do not provide proper information about the state of a person and his organ.

X-rays cannot be used to examine pregnant women. One of the types of radiography is tomography. The latter method is more informative, since the picture is displayed on the monitor screen, simulating the patient's organ, however, the exposure in this case is higher than with x-rays.

Radionuclide examination and angiocardiography

An isotope study of the heart, namely the radionuclide method, is carried out by introducing radioisotopes into the blood, which make it possible to further evaluate their distribution. This method helps to determine the formation of blood clots in the vessels, as well as myocardial infarction. In this case, the patient also receives radiation.

Angiocardiography involves injecting a radiopaque substance directly into the heart. With its help, doctors can study many parameters of the heart chambers and blood vessels. A procedure is used to clarify the possibility of surgical intervention on the organ. It is this method that is one of the main ones when examining blood clots. Angiocardiography is performed by catheterization.

Important! Only the doctor chooses a way to check the vessels of the heart, by dopplerography or angiography. The choice of method is influenced by many parameters, including the purpose of the study.

For each person and specific case, a certain type of diagnosis can be used, although in some situations not one method, but several at once, may be used. It depends on the state of health, the age of the patient and the reason why the heart hurts, that is, the existing pathology.

Home verification methods

You can check the work of the heart at home, and people over 40 years of age are recommended to do this more often in order to detect deterioration in time. For home diagnostics, a tonometer is used, which can measure blood pressure and pulse rate.

The tonometer can be used of any type, for which there is enough money. Measurements are taken only in a sitting or lying position, at rest. You can carry them out on both hands, but only on the elbow. If during measurements the pressure is more or less than 110 / 70-140 / 90 and the indicator lasts for a long time, it is recommended to visit a cardiologist.

To measure the pulse at home, you just need to be at rest and fix the beating of the vessel on the neck or arm. Pulsation should be counted for a minute. This method will allow you to catch the failure of the rhythm, if any.

Some types of blood pressure monitors can independently count the pulse during the measurement of blood pressure.

Suspicion of atherosclerosis: examinations that must be taken to confirm or refute the diagnosis

With atherosclerosis, there is an accumulation of fats and proliferation of connective tissue in the wall of the arteries. The integrity of the inner shell of the vessels is violated, their lumen narrows, which leads to an obstacle to the blood supply to organs and tissues. Diagnosis requires consultation with a therapist, cardiologist, other specialists, as well as a study of the blood lipid spectrum, ultrasound of blood vessels, heart, angiography.

Examination by specialists in atherosclerosis

Most often, the assumption of the presence of atherosclerosis in a patient may arise from a local therapist or family doctor. The process of changing the walls of blood vessels develops in almost all people after 45 years.

But its manifestations and severity are different. After the doctor finds out the complaints, he gives a referral for biochemical blood tests to confirm elevated cholesterol levels, low-density lipids and an ECG.

Following the initial diagnosis, as a rule, it is recommended to consult such specialists for a more in-depth examination:

• cardiologist - examines damage to the heart and large arteries;
• vascular surgeon - reveals circulatory disorders in the lower extremities;
• neuropathologist - determines the degree of blood flow in the vessels of the brain;
• endocrinologist - examines the thyroid gland, hormones, etc. (and atherosclerosis is often a sign of diabetes);
• ophthalmologist - examines changes in vision.

And here is more about the main signs of atherosclerosis of the aorta.

What will the doctor reveal during the examination

For the diagnosis, the following complaints of the patient are important:

• headache, dizziness, tinnitus;
• paroxysmal weakness and numbness in the limbs;
• during physical exertion, there is difficulty in breathing, increased heart rate and pain behind the sternum;
• when walking, you need to make stops due to pain in the legs.

On examination, nonspecific signs are revealed:

• xanthomas - yellow spots on the lower eyelids;
• xanthelasma - cholesterol deposits on the outer surface of the elbow joints, calcaneal tendons;
• clouding of the iris in the form of a crescent;
• tortuous, dense temporal and brachial arteries;
• difference in the filling of the pulse on the limbs.

Often found high blood pressure, systolic murmur in the apex of the heart, accentuated 2 tone over the aorta.

What tests to take for atherosclerosis and their interpretation

The diagnosis of atherosclerosis can take place in several stages. First, the lipid composition of the blood is examined, and then instrumental diagnostics of the vascular network is carried out.

Blood tests, including biochemical

A general blood test is not very informative, sugar can be elevated, which requires an in-depth study of carbohydrate metabolism.

In the coagulogram, symptoms of an increase in the blood coagulation system, reduced activity of fibrinolysis and platelet functions are revealed. This may be useful in assessing the risk of thrombosis.

For further assessment of cardiorisk, the following indicators are determined:

• c-reactive protein, ALT and AST for suspected myocardial infarction;
• blood potassium - elevated during tissue ischemia.

Definition of lipid metabolism

The main laboratory sign of atherosclerosis is a disturbed metabolism of fats. Its signs:

• increased cholesterol, triglycerides and low and very low density lipoproteins;
• decrease in high density lipoproteins;
• apolipoprotein A1 is below normal;
• apolipoprotein B is high.

To determine the risk of cardiovascular pathology, an indicator is used, which is called the atherogenic index. This is the ratio of the concentration of total blood cholesterol to low density lipoproteins. If it is below 2.9, then the probability of developing atherosclerosis in the patient is low, the average risk is up to 4.9, and higher rates indicate 100% atherosclerotic vascular damage.

Ultrasound of blood vessels, including the lower extremities

The patency of the arteries is determined, the violation of blood flow is assessed, the presence of signs of thrombosis or blockage by an atherosclerotic plaque. The method is used for reduced pulsation in the feet, popliteal and femoral arteries, as well as the difference in the filling of the pulse in the lower extremities. An indirect symptom is the slow healing of wounds at the site of impaired blood supply.

X-ray examination

Allows you to establish signs of atherosclerosis of the heart (coronary arteries), aorta, pulmonary artery:

• the size of the heart is increased, mainly due to the left ventricle;
• there may be symptoms of wall aneurysm - bulging of the area, most often on the left;
• elongation of the aorta, pathological bending, increased shadow contrast, areas of calcification;
• with damage to the pulmonary artery, the pulmonary pattern is strengthened, there are aneurysmal changes in the branches.

On the x-ray (direct projection): a penetrating atherosclerotic aortic ulcer with a false aneurysm (shown by an arrow).

Cardiogram (ECG)

In coronary heart disease, as the main manifestation of atherosclerosis, the symptoms on the ECG during a routine study are not very specific, especially in the initial stages: left ventricular hypertrophy, arrhythmia, conduction disturbances. Therefore, more complete information can be obtained during load tests.

Stress testing in atherosclerosis

Several options for physical activity are used to determine its tolerance:

• ascent to the step platform (Master's test);
• bicycle ergometry - riding a special bicycle;
• treadmill - walking on a treadmill.

Bicycle ergometry

In diseases of the joints or thrombophlebitis, as well as general detraining, they are replaced with pharmacological tests with Izadrin or Ergometrine.

These studies are considered positive (diagnosis is confirmed) if the patient has chest pain typical of angina pectoris, more than normal, increased heart rate, a decrease in pressure by 25% or less, a change in the location of the ST segment in relation to the isoline.

Ankle-brachial index

The pressure on the shoulder is measured in the standard way in the supine position, and then the cuff is installed 5 cm above the ankle. The index is calculated by dividing the indicators of systolic pressure - ankle to shoulder. The norm at rest is from 1 to 1.3.

With changes in the coefficient, the following pathology can be suspected:

• less than 0.4 - severe blockage of the arteries, the risk of trophic ulcers and gangrene;
• from 0.41 to 0.9 - moderate or mild degree of circulatory disorders, angiographic examination is necessary;
• from 0.9 to 1 - the upper limit of the norm, pain may occur during physical exertion;
• more than 1.3 - the wall of the vessels is dense, rigid, a symptom of diabetes or kidney failure.

dopplerography

With the help of dopplerometry, the speed of blood flow in the vessels of the neck, brain and lower extremities is determined. Most often, a duplex or triplex study is prescribed, in which scanning is performed using ultrasound and visualization on the screen of circulatory disorders, the location of atherosclerotic plaques.

Ultrasound of the vessels of the neck: stenosis of the external carotid artery due to atherosclerosis

Vascular contrast

By filling the vasculature with a contrast agent, narrowing of the lumen, obliteration (blockage), the area of ​​the lesion and the state of regional blood flow, the development of bypass routes - collaterals can be detected.

The following types of diagnostics are used:

• aortography,
• angiography of peripheral vessels,
• coronary angiography.

And here is more about the treatment of atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels.

Tomographic research methods

With this technique, a contrast agent is injected intravenously, and then an image of the vascular arterial network is obtained using a tomograph. With the help of the apparatus, violations of the structure, location and operation of large and peripheral vessels are detected. For the diagnosis of atherosclerosis is used:

• MRI of the vessels of the extremities;
• CT of the aorta;
• peripheral tomographic arteriography;
• multislice CT of the aorta, coronary vessels, arteries of the kidneys and extremities.

MRI of the vessels of the lower extremities

These methods are among the most informative, they are used to determine the scope of surgical intervention and in complex diagnostic cases.

To detect atherosclerosis, complaints and examination data of the patient are taken into account, but in order to confirm the diagnosis, it is necessary to analyze the lipid composition of the blood, as well as ultrasound and angiographic examination of the arterial network. The most informative are tomographic methods.

Useful video

About modern approaches to the diagnosis of atherosclerosis, see this video:

Thrombosis / Embolism. Surveys. Ask a question to a cardiologist. Atherosclerosis of the vessels of the neck. By stenosis (or occlusion) of the carotid arteries is meant.

Thrombosis / Embolism. Surveys. Ask a question to a cardiologist. . Atherosclerosis is a thickening and hardening of the walls of the arteries, in which it "quietly and slowly" narrows.

For a preliminary examination and prescription of medications, you need to contact a neurologist, and nutrition for atherosclerosis will help you choose a nutritionist or.

Thrombosis / Embolism. Surveys. Ask a question to a cardiologist. Why does obliterating atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities develop and how is it treated.

Diagnosis of atherosclerosis of cerebral vessels consists in examinations of the brain and laboratory tests.

We will publish information shortly.

Timely diagnosis plays an important role in the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases. It is often sufficient to conduct a standard ECG to make a correct diagnosis. In other cases, a diverse study of the heart is required, which allows you to establish the exact cause of the disease and conduct effective treatment.

Cardiac examinations help to identify cardiovascular diseases of various levels of severity. If earlier only a physical examination was used, today a variety of research methods and advanced technologies are used.

Timely examination of the heart can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, a group of which ranks first among the main causes of death.

Each patient entering the cardiology department or visiting a doctor in a polyclinic due to heart disease undergoes a standard set of studies. If after this it is not possible to establish the root cause of the pathology, then narrowly focused diagnostic methods are used.

Video Worrying about the heart? Where to start the survey?

Primary examination of the patient's heart

The very first method of diagnosing a patient with cardiovascular pathology is a physical examination at the first appointment with a doctor. Initially, an examination is performed to identify visual changes (edema, cyanosis, pulsations in the neck). After that, with the help of tapping, the doctor determines the boundaries of the heart, which in pathological cases change.

Auscultation of the heart is an important method of physical examination, with the help of which pathological rhythms and murmurs, the severity of heart tones are determined.

A phonendoscope is used for auscultation. The same instrument, in combination with a tonometer, measures blood pressure. In the process of listening to heart tones, their sound, sequence is studied. In the normal state, two constant tones are heard, the first and second. With one or another pathology, additional, as well as the third and fourth tones, can be detected.

Video Basic physical methods of examination of the heart

Instrumental diagnostic methods

Progressive technologies allow today to conduct the most complex and previously inaccessible research. This is extremely important for prescribing the right treatment, since an accurate diagnosis is the key to effective therapy. As a rule, they start with standard methods - electrocardiography, ultrasound of the heart. If necessary, the examination is supplemented by an electrophysiological study, MRI, CT, angiocardiography.

Frequently used instrumental diagnostic methods:

• Electrocardiography.
• Echocardiography.
• Angiocardiography.

Some of these methods are painless, while others, on the contrary, refer to invasive diagnostics. But all, without exception, are carried out with the help of special equipment, which to a greater or lesser extent affects the human body.

Electrocardiography

It is a valuable research method in cardiology, with the help of which most cardiovascular diseases are diagnosed. The first electrocardiogram was taken by Willem Einthoven, who developed a string galvanometer, recorded in the twentieth century, almost the same ECG as it is done today. The same researcher developed a system for designating the resulting teeth, which is still widely used.

Registration of the electrical activity of the heart is carried out using an electrocardiograph, which today use thermal paper for recording. If the device is completely electronic, then the received data can be stored in a computer.

Electrical indicators are determined using electrodes, which on the electrocardiograph show a potential difference in the form of teeth. To obtain them, standard leads (I, II and III) are used, which, in accordance with the charges, are superimposed on the right arm and left leg (+) and the left arm (-). Amplified leads are also recorded, designated as aVR, aVL, aVF, which are taken from the limbs. In addition to these six leads, unipolar chest leads are recorded, from V1 to V9, but V1-V6 are most often determined.

ECG allows you to determine:

• cicatricial changes;
• violation of blood supply;
• dystrophic manifestations;
• signs of myocardial infarction;
• signs of rhythm disturbance.

A standard ECG does not always make it possible to accurately establish pathological changes in the heart, therefore, if necessary, other studies based on electrocardiography are used:

• 24-hour ECG monitoring - detects mild arrhythmias that are difficult to fix using a standard ECG. The patient is required to wear a portable electrocardiograph from one day to 5-7 days, which records the activity of the heart, after which the doctor analyzes the data obtained.
• ECG mapping, or precordial mapping - when using a large number of electrodes, a long study is carried out, as a result of which even the most severe and difficult to diagnose diseases can be successfully identified. All information received by the device is processed by a computer, therefore, the results obtained are highly accurate.
• Load texts (veloergometry, treadmill test) - are performed in order to determine heart lesions that are not detected in the normal state. When performing physical activity, favorable conditions are often created for the occurrence of arrhythmias or other disorders of the heart. In particular, with the help of bicycle ergometry, angina pectoris, coronary heart disease, etc. are determined. A repeated examination can determine exercise tolerance, the effectiveness of previous treatment, and prognostic value.
• Intraesophageal electrocardiography - an active electrode is inserted into the esophagus, which is brought as close as possible to the heart. Using this method, it is possible to assess the performance of the atrioventricular connection and the atria. It is often used at the stage of diagnosing various types of rhythm disturbances, especially heart blockades.
• Vectorcardiography - when using a projection graph, a three-dimensional figure is built that reflects the electrical activity of the heart. In the presence of rhythm disturbances, corresponding changes in the vector of cardiac activity are recorded.
• Gastrocardiomonitoring is a method of simultaneous study of the electrical activity of the heart and acidity in the stomach and esophagus. According to the method of conducting, non-Holter monitoring is similar, only during the day not only the electrocardiogram is recorded, but also pH-metry. The examination is often used in the process of diagnosing gastrointestinal and cardiovascular diseases.

Electrocardiography is one of the safest and easiest research methods to perform. It is available at any level of medical care, so if possible and desired, you can get quite a lot of reliable information about the state of the heart.

Video Methods of examination of the heart. ECG and FCG

echocardiography

This method is more commonly known as ultrasound, or ultrasound of the heart. The principle of operation of the study is based on capturing signals that were reflected from various structures of the heart. Depending on the acoustic density, the signal is perceived differently, but in the end, the corresponding image is formed.

Used to detect organic heart disease, congenital and acquired defects, as well as to assess the functionality of the myocardium. It is considered the method of choice when examining people with complaints of weakness, dizziness, pain in the heart, loss of consciousness, frequent heartbeat.

Based on ultrasound, a number of modified cardiac examinations have been created:

• Doppler echocardiography - an ultrasound monitor shows intracardiac blood flow, which allows you to see heart defects, pathological shunts and chords, to assess the hemodynamics of the heart.
• One-dimensional echocardiography - allows you to see the heart in one plane. A rather rough diagnosis, which is used to obtain the size of the organ, the thickness of its walls. Data are also obtained on the work of the valvular apparatus, the contractility of the heart.
• Two-dimensional echocardiography is a more informative study compared to the previous one. This is achieved by obtaining a three-dimensional image of the heart and its structures.
• Stress-ECHO is one of the options for stress tests. Combines the methods of ultrasound and bicycle ergometry. First, an ultrasound diagnosis is performed, and after the patient “rides” on a bicycle, an ultrasound scan is performed. As a result, ischemic heart disease, obstruction of the coronary vessels is determined, the effectiveness of therapy is evaluated.

Ultrasound is not prescribed in cases with chronic smoking, bronchial asthma, in the presence of large mammary glands or excessive hair growth of the chest. Also, the study is not carried out with deformities of the chest, infectious diseases of the skin in this area.

EchoCG refers to harmless and painless research methods. It is performed quite quickly and, if necessary, is repeated the required number of times.

Video Echocardiography, ultrasound of the heart, research methodology

Angiocardiography

The method refers to X-ray studies, during which a radiopaque substance is used. With the help of the study, it turns out to study the chambers of the heart, as well as the nearest veins and arteries.

A radiopaque substance is injected into the cavity of the heart and coronary vessels, for which a special catheter is used. It is supplied to the heart and blood vessels through the femoral or subclavian artery. As a result of the injection of a contrast agent, the structural parts of the heart become visible, for the evaluation of which a series of images is taken. Before the procedure, a sedative and antihistamine medication is required.

The study is often carried out before heart surgery in order to clarify the necessary physiological parameters of the myocardium. Also, the method is quite effective in the diagnosis of heart defects, violation of the structure of the nearest large vessels. With the widespread use of echocardiography, angiocardiography has become less commonly used. But in some cases, this method is indispensable, because it allows you to more accurately determine the anatomical structures of the heart.

Angiocardiography refers to invasive diagnostic methods, therefore it is relatively infrequently used. Nevertheless, if necessary, it helps to obtain more accurate data than with echocardiography.

Video Angiography and stenting of the heart vessels

Lab tests

Often prescribed in the presence or high risk of determining concomitant pathology. Also, with some lesions of the heart, certain substances are released into the blood, fixed with the help of special laboratory tests.

Common laboratory tests for heart disease:

• Urinalysis - the kidneys are sensitive to the state of the cardiovascular system. With edema, after an attack of paroxysmal tachycardia, septic endocarditis, the quality and quantity of urine changes. Basically, violations are expressed in a decrease in the specific gravity of urine, the determination of hyaline cylinders, erythrocytes, and protein in the urine.
• A blood test is quite informative in the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases. In particular, often with heart defects increases the number of red blood cells. Such a change is associated with oxygen starvation in case of cardiac insufficiency. Inflammatory processes often affect the endocardium, myocardium and other structures of the heart. At the same time, leukocytosis develops and ESR increases.
• Sputum examination - carried out only in cases where there is a suspicion of acute left ventricular failure. With this pathology, stagnation in the lungs is observed, as a result of which bloody-foamy sputum is formed. In some cases, it may be colorless, which is often noted with severe pulmonary congestion. Microscopic analysis of sputum allows you to determine the "cardiac cells", the presence of which is characteristic of myocardial infarction and heart failure.

During each study, it is required to carefully follow the requirements of the doctor conducting the diagnosis. This will help you get faster and better results. It will also subsequently prevent the development of complications, so the joint cooperation of the doctor and the patient will contribute to the achievement of the desired result.

26.01.2017 10:11:01

Diseases of the cardiovascular system in medical practice are the most complex and dangerous, which most often lead a person to death, regardless of the age of the patient.

Over the past quarter century in Ukraine, mortality due to these diseases has doubled, which cannot but cause serious concern.

That is why it is necessary to keep the state of your cardiovascular system under constant control, undergo preventive examinations with a cardiologist, especially if there are certain prerequisites for the occurrence of pathologies, for example, heredity, overwork, heavy physical exertion, etc.

One of the main symptoms of heart disease is the appearance of pain in the region of the heart, which can have different strength and direction depending on the heart disease and its severity.

The second characteristic sign of heart disease is shortness of breath, which occurs from circulatory failure.

The third sign of problems in the work of the heart is a rapid heartbeat, as well as interruptions in the work of the heart.

All of the above symptoms are signals of an appeal to a cardiologist, who, in order to make an accurate diagnosis, will send the patient for an additional examination, which includes passing certain tests.

What tests are done for heart disease?

It is also worth considering that many pathological processes in the cardiovascular system are asymptomatic. Therefore, even if you are not worried about pain in the heart, shortness of breath, heart palpitations or arrhythmia, a periodic visit to a cardiologist should be included in the list of mandatory preventive measures that will help maintain your health for many years.

As with any diseases of various organs and systems, timely diagnosis and well-prescribed effective treatment of heart diseases will help not only to cure certain diseases, but also prevent serious complications, improve the quality of life, prolong it and even save it.

In diseases of the heart and blood vessels, a comprehensive analysis is prescribed - a cardiological profile.

Cardiology profile: why is it needed?

Cardiology profile is a set of special blood tests that allows you to:

Assess risk factors for developing heart and vascular diseases;

Reveal early and latent lesions of the cardiovascular system;

To identify the risk of developing atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease and heart failure;

Assess the risk of myocardial infarction.

Cardiology profile: indications

Indications for the appointment of a complex of analyzes of a cardiological profile are:

Atherosclerosis of vessels;

Cardiac ischemia;

High blood pressure;

Heart rhythm disturbances, including:

Stroke;

Arrhythmia;

heart attack;

Tachycardia.

What tests are included in the cardiology profile?

- Troponin quantitative;

Potassium (K);

Lipidogram;

Coagulogram;

AST (AST, aspartate aminotransferase);

Creatine kinase (creatine phosphokinase, CK, CPK);

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).

What do cardiac profile indicators mean?

• Troponin can diagnose myocardial infarction. Troponin- this is a special protein that is contained only inside the cells of the heart muscle (cardiomyocytes), it is practically not determined in the blood under normal conditions. However, if cardiomyocytes begin to die and collapse, and most often this happens due to a developed myocardial infarction, then troponin begins to penetrate into the general bloodstream, as a result of which its concentration in the blood increases hundreds, and sometimes thousands of times. This feature has become a key factor in making early or late diagnosis of myocardial infarction.

• NT-proBNP- brain natriuretic hormone - a protein produced in the left ventricle of the heart. Plays an important role in the diagnosis of heart failure. Blood analysis to D-dimer indispensable when examining patients for various thrombotic disorders. D-dimer is a small protein fragment that is formed as a result of the breakdown of fibrin (fibrin is a blood plasma protein. Fibrin serves as the structural basis of a blood clot - ed.). Elevated levels of D-dimer in the blood indicate the tendency of the human body to form blood clots or other problems with blood clotting.

• Potassium(K) is an essential trace element in the human body. He takes part in the act of muscle contraction, the normal activity of the heart, the conduction of an impulse along nerve fibers, metabolism and enzyme activity. Potassium deficiency leads to disruption of the cardiovascular system, can cause muscle weakness. Prolonged potassium deficiency can cause cardiac arrest. Large doses of potassium cause heart failure.

• INR- this indicator is purely for assessing the effectiveness and correctness of treatment with anticoagulants ( drugs that reduce the activity of the blood coagulation system and prevent excessive formation of blood clots - ed.). Patients who are forced to constantly take drugs to thin the blood are required to control its coagulation abilities. This is necessary not only to assess the effectiveness of treatment, but also allows you to choose an adequate dose of funds. In the same way, a person can be saved from an overdose of anticoagulants, preventing the development of appropriate complications against this background. One of the modern methods of such control is the INR (international normalized ratio).

• Lipidogram(lipid profile) helps diagnose atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.

• With help coagulograms the level of blood viscosity is determined. An increased value of blood viscosity indicates an increased risk of developing complications of hypertension, coronary heart disease, heart attack or stroke.

• Increase ASAT values, an intracellular enzyme involved in the metabolism of amino acids in the tissues of the liver, heart muscle and other organs, indicates an increased risk of developing a heart attack.

• This is also indicated by the enzyme creatine kinase, which is a catalyst for the rate of ATP conversion. An increase in the activity of CPK-MB, an enzyme found in heart muscle cells, indicates an increased risk of myocardial infarction.

• Most active LDH(lactate dehydrogenase), a zinc-containing enzyme, is observed in the cells of the heart muscle, liver, and kidneys. LDH activity also increases sharply in acute myocardial infarction.

How should one prepare for a cardiology profile?

A cardiological profile is a comprehensive blood test for the content of certain enzymes. Blood for a cardiological profile is taken in the morning, on an empty stomach.

The day before blood sampling, it is necessary to exclude the use of alcohol, as well as psycho-emotional and physical activity.

Very often, people do not pay attention to the presence of the following symptoms, attributing their appearance to fatigue and other ailments. Of course, you should not rush headlong to a cardiologist, having found one of the symptoms described. But to consult a doctor if these manifestations are observed over a long period of time and do not go away, it will not be superfluous.

Paleness and weakness

Anxiety, fatigue, poor sleep can be symptoms of cardiac neurosis. The pallor of the skin indicates anemia and vasospasm, and the blue of the limbs, nose, cheeks, and ears indicates the presence of cardiopulmonary insufficiency.

ULTRASOUND DIAGNOSTICS

Electrocardiography (ECG) is a mandatory method for examining the heart. ECG allows you to get an idea about the frequency and regularity of the heart rhythm, the presence of arrhythmias, as well as the adequacy or deficiency of the blood supply to the heart muscle (myocardium).

Holter ECG monitoring is a method of daily ECG recording using a special device - a registrar, which the patient wears for 22-24 hours without being in the hospital. The method is used for in-depth analysis of arrhythmias and detection of episodes of myocardial ischemia.

Daily blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is a method of daily registration of blood pressure using an automatic computerized tonometer. The study is carried out in the conditions of ordinary life and makes it possible to judge the presence or absence of arterial hypertension in the patient, as well as the adequacy of the therapy.

Echocardiography (ECHOCG or ultrasound of the heart) - determines the size of the cavities and the thickness of the walls of the heart, evaluates the operation of the valvular apparatus, reveals violations of the contractile function and relaxation function, characterizes the movement of blood flows inside the heart.

Allows you to diagnose coronary heart disease, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, diseases of the muscular and outer shells of the heart. And also for the purpose of preventive examination, since the method allows you to detect disorders of the heart at the earliest stages.

Indications for echocardiography can be varied: pain in the heart area, changes in the electrocardiogram, heart murmurs, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, congenital heart defects, signs of heart failure, etc.

Stress echocardiography (stress ECHOCG) is a highly informative study that allows you to get not only electrocardiographic signs of myocardial ischemia, but also to assess violations of the contractile function of the heart, changes in intracardiac hemodynamics after exercise (physical or medication).

Vascular doppler ultrasound (USDG) is used to detect blood flow disorders in the vessels. An ultrasound scan is performed on the vessels of the head, neck, veins of the lower and upper extremities.

The survey is informative for both venous and arterial circulation systems. With the help of ultrasound, it is possible to study the nature of the blood flow in the vessels, its disturbances caused by atherosclerotic plaques, blood clots and inflammation.

The results obtained with Doppler ultrasound can successfully treat heart and neurological diseases.

A visit to a phlebologist or angiologist should not be delayed if the venous pattern on the legs becomes more pronounced, and in the evening the legs swell, and the feeling of fatigue and heaviness in the lower extremities does not give rest.

As a rule, the doctor begins the appointment with the establishment of visual signs of changes in the skin. But in order to make an accurate diagnosis, it is important to have information about the state of the connective tissue and deep saphenous veins and their valves.

We will not repeat about duplex ultrasound scanning, which is a universal method for examining blood vessels, when there are still specific methods for examining the veins of the lower extremities.

There are many functional tests that do not have accurate information content, but make it possible at a certain stage of the disease to determine the degree of patency of deep veins. So, for example, during the Delba-Perthes march test, the patient, when the superficial veins are full, is put on a tourniquet on the upper part of the thigh and is asked to walk for 10 minutes.

With good patency, superficial veins subside within a minute.

Phlebography

More accurate information can be obtained by examining the veins by radiography (phlebography, venography) with the introduction of a contrast agent. This process is quite laborious, since the radiograph is made in various projections. The patient must change the position of the body, then hold his breath, then exhale in time.

Functional-dynamic phlebomanometry

This method provides more accurate information, since venous pressure is measured during various physical exertion. At rest, in an upright position, venous pressure in the legs cannot exceed hydrostatic pressure.

But to detect damaged valves, you should still turn to the ultrasonic Doppler detector. According to the ultrasonic wave, the transducer produces different sounds.

Several research modes are used to assess the diameter of the vein, the lumen, and the presence of a valve. Quite often, doctors use a two-color Doppler analyzer in the diagnosis of venous expansion, which highlights the veins in blue, and the arteries in red, but it is considered ineffective.

What tests are taken to detect diseases of the heart and blood vessels?

Oddly enough, but to diagnose the state of the cardiovascular system, the doctor prescribes the most common laboratory tests: general and biochemical blood tests. Based on their results, one can judge the main processes occurring in the body.

It gives an idea of ​​the level of hemoglobin, the number of leukocytes, erythrocytes, platelets, erythrocyte indices, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and other indicators. Deciphering the results of this seemingly simple analysis, the doctor can detect several disorders in the body at once:

• a low level of hemoglobin (the norm for men is 130-160 g / l, for women - 120-140 g / l) indicates kidney problems, anemia, internal bleeding may indicate;
• an increase in the number of leukocytes (the norm is from 4 to 9 x109 cells per liter) suggests the development of an inflammatory process;
• a decrease in red blood cells (the norm for men is 4.4-5.0 x1012 / l, for women - from 3.8 to 4.5 x1012 / l) is a sign of chronic inflammatory processes and oncological diseases, and their increase indicates dehydration of the body;
• a lack of platelets (in men, the norm is 200-400 thousand U / μl, in women - 180-320 thousand U / μl.) leads to problems with blood clotting, and too much - to the formation of blood clots;
• a high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a clear sign of an inflammatory process. The norm of ESR for men is 1-10 mm / h, for women - 2-15 mm / h.

Thanks to it, the doctor receives additional information about the work of the heart and blood vessels, since it provides results for a larger number of enzymes.

Indications for verification

To identify congenital pathologies of the heart vessels, coronary angiography of the heart vessels is indicated. If shunting is prescribed, then using the technique in question, the doctor determines the area for future operations.

The indications for coronary angiography are as follows:

• manifestation of symptoms of narrowing of the vessels of the heart;
• ineffective drug therapy;
• valve replacement;
• open heart surgery;
• heart failure;
• serious chest injury.

If the pain syndrome spreads to the abdomen, back and neck, then cardiography is performed. It is recommended to make a cardiogram during a preventive examination, during pregnancy. Cardiography, in contrast to coronary angiography, allows you to identify hidden cardiac arrhythmias. Using these techniques, the doctor detects coronation of blood vessels, heart attack.

How is a cardiogram done? First, the patient takes a supine position. The specialist attaches electrodes to the area of ​​the arms, legs and chest. Then the work of the heart is recorded. The survey lasts 5-10 minutes. A cardiologist or therapist analyzes the patient's condition.

Such an examination is often prescribed for children. But the normal value of their cardiogram indicators differs from those of adults. In children up to a year, fluctuations in heart contraction depend on their lifestyle. Cardiography at the age of 1-6 years shows the normal, vertical or horizontal location of the EOS. From 7-15 years old, the position of the EOS is normal or vertical.

Coronary angiography of the heart vessels is contraindicated in the following cases:

• with pathologies of the circulatory system, lungs, kidneys;
• if the patient has bleeding or high body temperature;
• with diabetes.

What is coronary angiography, how it is performed, older people should know. They can undergo such an examination only after consulting a doctor. After coronary angiography of the heart, the following complications may occur:

• heart attack;
• rupture of an artery or heart;
• heart attack or stroke;
• arrhythmia;
• kidney damage;
• profuse bleeding.

How is coronary angiography done? Before the procedure, you will need the following:

• pass biochemical and clinical tests;
• pass a coagulogram;
• identify the blood type
• determine the Rh factor.

Checking the vessels of the heart requires a preliminary complete examination of the patient:

• electrocardiogram;
• chest x-ray.

Preparation of the patient for the examination includes the following:

• refusal of food and drink 12 hours before the study;
• emptying the bladder;
• Before the examination, it is recommended to remove jewelry and contact lenses.

There are no characteristic signs of vascular damage. Arteries and veins are connected with various organs, and in case of malfunctions in the blood flow, they affect “their” organ. Therefore, the disease acquires symptoms characteristic of the pathology of this organ, which, of course, makes it difficult to diagnose.

The most common indications for the study of blood vessels are the following conditions:

1. abnormal blood pressure.
2. Increased intracranial pressure.
3. Any traumatic brain injury.
4. Migraines and headaches, the cause of which is not determined.
5. brain tumors.
6. Preparing for heart surgery.
7. Any signs of ischemia.
8. Varicose disease.
9. Edema and heaviness of the limbs, the phenomenon of chilliness, convulsions.
10. Risk factors: smoking, overweight, diabetes, etc.

Biochemical analysis is one of the most accessible, fast and inexpensive methods of examination. It allows you to assess the state of the whole organism. Any disturbances in the work of internal organs invariably affect the composition of the blood. This analysis is used in all areas of medicine, including cardiology. Almost any medical examination begins with.

A biochemical blood test includes many indicators. Most often, only a part of these indicators is assigned, since detailed analysis is rarely required.

The essence of the analysis is to determine the amount and concentration of chemicals in the blood. As you know, blood circulates in all tissues, therefore, with inflammation or a violation in any of them, the composition of the blood also changes.

A biochemical therapeutic blood test can be prescribed if absolutely any disease is suspected. The examination is prescribed by therapists, hepatologists, gastroenterologists, cardiologists.

1. Diagnosis confirmation. The analysis allows you to identify specific violations and clarify the existing diagnosis.
2. Diseases of the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract. A biochemical therapeutic blood test is indispensable for examining the functioning of the digestive tract, since enzymes are present in the indicators.
3. Pregnancy. During pregnancy, a blood test is given constantly, once every 2 weeks. The examination allows you to identify violations of the internal organs, prevent miscarriage, diagnose preeclampsia in time.
4. Prevention. As a preventive examination, a blood test is recommended to be taken annually. This will help to detect at an early stage a number of diseases.
5. Checking the effectiveness of treatment. If the diagnosis is made and treatment is prescribed, a blood test is prescribed during its process or after completion of the course to check the progress and effectiveness of the prescribed treatment methods.

More information about the lipid profile can be found in the video:

Among the advantages of laboratory research are availability, low price, speed of the procedure, painlessness and high information content. The disadvantages include the possibility of error.

Blood reacts not only to internal changes, but also to external influences. Therefore, without proper preparation, the result can be erroneous. Also, despite the high information content of the analysis, it is difficult to make an accurate diagnosis based on the results without further examination.

Cardiology profile: what tests are included in it

Cardiovascular diseases require especially careful examination. It is currently the most common cause of death in the population. For the timely detection of diseases, an examination is prescribed.

A cardiological profile is a whole range of tests to check the condition of the heart and blood vessels. It is prescribed for any suspicion of a violation of the cardiovascular system and is the initial stage of the examination.

A cardiological profile allows not only to detect existing diseases, but also to determine the risk and likelihood of their occurrence, predict the course of the disease, and choose treatment or preventive measures.With the help of a cardiological profile, diseases can be detected at an early stage, in a latent form, when there are still no symptoms.

The cardiology profile includes the following tests:

• Lipidogram. This analysis allows you to determine the level of lipids in the blood, the tendency to. Indicators reveal violations in lipid metabolism. This includes cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides.
• . The analysis includes indicators. Coagulation disorders can lead to thrombosis or bleeding. These indicators need to be controlled.
• AST. This enzyme is responsible for the metabolism not only in the liver tissues, but also in the heart muscle. The indicator is often used to diagnose myocardial infarction.
• Creatine kinase. This is an enzyme responsible for energy metabolism in cells and tissues. If the level of this enzyme is significantly increased, this indicates the risk of myocardial infarction.
• LDH. This enzyme is found in the heart muscle, kidneys, and liver tissues. Its level in the blood increases with myocardial infarction in the acute stage.

Indications for a cardiological profile are any heart disease, suspicion of myocardial infarction, and chest pain, high blood pressure.

Indicators of biochemical analysis and their application in cardiology

A complete biochemical analysis includes more than 20 indicators. Most often, the doctor specifies which indicators are needed to make a diagnosis. The choice depends on the symptoms and the suspected disease.

When examining cardiovascular diseases, indicators of the cardiological profile are most often evaluated. But other indicators can also be important in assessing the effects of heart disease.

The list of commonly prescribed indicators of a biochemical blood test includes:

• Glucose. Donating blood for sugar is necessary for people with suspected diabetes mellitus in order to control the metabolism in the body. Disorders of carbohydrate metabolism, as a rule, indicate a failure in the endocrine system, as well as various liver diseases.
• . Cholesterol has several varieties (lipids of high and low density). Not all types of cholesterol are unhealthy. Everyone needs to monitor cholesterol levels, especially people over 50 years old, as the risk of atherosclerosis increases.
• Bilirubin. Bilirubin is a protein that is broken down in the liver tissues. With a large accumulation of bilirubin in the blood, it becomes toxic. This indicator is used to check the functioning of the liver and bile ducts.
• AST. An enzyme that is relevant to both the liver tests and the cardiac profile. It is used in the diagnosis of heart attacks and liver diseases (cirrhosis, hepatitis, etc.)
• ALT. This indicator refers to liver tests. A small amount of the enzyme is present in the kidneys and heart muscle.
• Albumen. Albumin is a protein found in large amounts in blood plasma. The level of albumin is taken into account when an infectious disease is suspected, systemic and autoimmune diseases.

Cardiac examination primarily evaluates lipids, cholesterol and enzymes contained in the heart muscle.

Preparation and procedure for blood sampling

Donating blood is a standard procedure. A person goes through it several times during his life. It is worth remembering that the blood reacts to any effect, therefore, to obtain reliable results, you must follow the doctor's recommendations regarding preparation.

A biochemical blood test does not require complex or lengthy preparation. It is enough to follow your diet for a couple of days and refuse some procedures (visiting a solarium, physical activity).

If the result is questionable by the doctor or there were violations in the preparation, it is recommended to retake the analysis.

Preparation includes the following aspects:

1. It is important that the blood does not clot for a certain time. It is better to take the test in the morning and on an empty stomach. If an urgent analysis is required, then it is carried out at any time of the day.
2. In the morning before the procedure, you can not have breakfast, drink coffee, tea, sweet carbonated drinks, but you can drink a glass of pure non-carbonated water. When testing blood for sugar, it is better not to brush your teeth, as the paste contains a certain amount of glucose.
3. Smoking and alcohol negatively affect the state of the body, which invariably affects the composition of the blood. It is necessary to stop smoking on the day of the examination (or at least an hour before it), it is not recommended to drink alcoholic beverages a day or two before visiting the laboratory.
4. A couple of days before blood sampling, you need to follow a simple diet (especially when taking liver tests). It is necessary to abandon the use of fatty, fried, spicy, reduce the use of sweets. With the amount of protein foods (mushrooms, eggs, meat), it is also better not to overdo it.

The procedure itself is quite simple. The patient takes blood from a vein with a special syringe. Blood is drawn into a test tube, on which the serial number of the patient is placed. At the same time, a person does not experience pain, but there may be a slight dizziness caused by hunger or the sight of blood. If you experience any discomfort, please report it to the nurse.

Norm and deviations from the norm

The result of a biochemical blood test is ready within a day. Only a doctor should deal with decoding. Even with knowledge of the norms of indicators, only a specialist can evaluate the picture as a whole. Each individual indicator is taken into account in conjunction with others. It is impossible to self-diagnose in this way.

The norm can change with age, as well as depending on gender. The norm undergoes changes in a pregnant woman, depending on the period.

Deviations may indicate certain diseases, depending on the degree of increase or decrease in the indicator relative to the norm.

In cardiology, deviations in the following indicators are taken into account:

• . If we talk about total cholesterol, then the norm in an adult is 3.18 - 5.96 mol / l. In this case, it is necessary to take into account which lipids predominate in this amount (high or low density). An increase in cholesterol levels indicates a high risk of developing. A lowered level, as a rule, is not considered a serious pathology.
• AST. This enzyme is involved in the synthesis of amino acids. Its norm is 34-40 IU, depending on gender. An elevated level of AST is observed with a heart attack and injuries of the heart muscle. The decrease in the index does not carry diagnostic value.
• Triglycerides. TG is a source of energy for the body. This indicator is used in the diagnosis of atherosclerosis. Normally, the level of TG is 0.34 - 3 mmol / l, depending on age and gender. The level of TG is increased with, atherosclerosis, heart attack. Reduced TG occurs in diseases of the liver, kidneys, lungs.
• Creatine kinase. The normal level of this enzyme is 146 U/l for women and 172 U/l for men. Exceeding this indicator indicates a myocardial infarction or possible thyroid diseases.

If abnormalities are found, the doctor may recommend retaking the analysis or prescribing a further examination to clarify the diagnosis.